In the battle between a motor vehicle and a bicycle, the motor vehicle usually wins. Because bicycle riders have nothing protecting them from injury during a collision (except for a well-fitted helmet) the results can be tragic.
Injuries caused by these types of collisions are often severe and come with expensive medical bills, loss of wages during recovery time, loss of transportation if the bicycle is damaged, and other costly consequences. If you are ever involved in a bicycle-motor vehicle collision, it is important that you know the proper steps to take afterward in order to recover the damages you deserve. Here’s what to do in the chaotic aftermath of a bicycle accident.
At the Scene Of the Accident…
If you are lucky enough to avoid serious injuries and are still conscious, coherent, and mobile after the accident, here is what you should do:
Get off the road. Get out of the way of traffic and go somewhere safe.
Call 911. Regardless of whether you think you need emergency medical attention, it is a good idea to have yourself checked out. Police will also need to report the accident and possibly cite the at-fault driver.
Take photos and look for witnesses. Use your phone to take photos of the damage to your bicycle, the car that hit you, your injuries, and any property damage that resulted from the accident. Look for witnesses to explain to the police what happened and personally get their information.
If your injuries do not allow you to do any of these things while at the scene of the accident, hiring an attorney becomes even more crucial. Consult a personal injury lawyer as soon as possible, or have a loved one do so for you.
How an Attorney Can Help
First off, an attorney can help get your medical bills paid promptly. This is especially important if you do not have health insurance. An experienced attorney can help you get access to payment sources that you may not even be aware of.
An attorney can also help you recover damages from the at-fault driver in the accident. Not only will you be able to seek recovery for medical bills, physical therapy and loss of income, but pain and suffering, scarring, interference with daily activities and more.
If you or a loved one has been involved in a bicycle accident, call Laporte, Mulligan & Werner-Watkins, P.A., immediately for a free consultation. Our experienced lawyers are dedicated to helping you recover the damages you deserve and getting you back on the road.